The criminal landscape is filled with the ne'er-do-wells and small-time evils that fail to get up to par. For example, the low-skilled Necromancers robbing crypts and plundering tombs (I see you). Pickpocketeers and quick-fingers that either filch or steal trinkets or flat out intimidate and bully those weaker than them into submission.

These people usually work in groups, troupes, or companies, where they strive to climb to the top. The leader of these answers to a "Kingpin" of a city. The Kingpin is considered to be THE crime authority in his city. Generally, his goons keep the local guard and shopkeepers quiet while he and his mid-tier grunt workers enforce their ideals in the shadows.

However, when a group of these "city Kingpins" come together, they form a Council of Thieves. They meet rarely, and what they discuss is shrouded in even more mystery. Some say they coordinate assassinations, dark rituals, and other evil machinations. Whispers of regicide have been a common tavern tale for decades. The loss of socks and shoes across the country are often attributed to the night work of the thieve's council.

Jokes aside, however, the Thieves council can brag about being the joint owners of an emerald the size of a cabbage, or the eye of Kalinkoth locked away in a dragon owned bank. They also have a trove of other artifacts tucked away in small holdings throughout the kingdom. These objects ranging from minor little magic trinkets up to kingdom shattering magical devices.

One thing is certain; Those that dare defy the wishes of the Council face a fate that isn't merely death.

Next: Council of Thieves: A Short Story (IV)